The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has argued that Nigeria’s tax system is long overdue for reforms.
He made the declaration at the national discourse organised by the Kaduna Chapter of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, on Saturday, in Kaduna State.
Idris stressed the role of public relations in bridging the gap between the government and the public.
He called for increased public trust and dialogue as Nigeria undertakes critical tax reforms aimed at spurring economic growth.
Themed “Tax Reforms: The Role of Public Relations in Fostering Constructive Dialogue for National Economic Renaissance,” Idris highlighted the urgent need to overhaul Nigeria’s tax system, describing it as plagued by outdated structures and a general mistrust among taxpayers.
“All over the world, effective taxation is important as a source of financial power for governments to provide social services for their citizens.
“However, there is plenty of reason to believe and assert that Nigeria’s tax administration system has become long overdue for reform, on account of design and implementation flaws as well as the general attitudes of taxpayers toward taxation,” he said.
He commended the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reform for its transparent approach and broad public engagement, noting that the ongoing review of tax laws is a critical step in laying a solid foundation for economic recovery.